Reviewing Requirements With A Child Support Lawyer In New Market

In Maryland,
parents must make decisions about child custody or support. During a
divorce case, the arrangements are managed through the divorce
agreement. If parents can’t agree, a separate child custody hearing
is scheduled. Seeking the advice of a child
support lawyer in New Market helps parents
determine which requirements apply to their case.

What is the
Basic Percentage of Child Support?

The current basic
percentage for child support is Maryland is 35% of the noncustodial
parent’s income. Any additional child receives five percent of the
parent’s income in child support. The state doesn’t reduce the
percentage unless the couple agrees to a lower value themselves.

Who Receives
Child Support?

The custodial
parent who has legal and physical custody of the child. Even in
shared custody arrangements, the noncustodial parent is required to
pay child support. However, a parenting plan where both parents have
the child for the same amount of time may require adjustments.

How are Child
Support Orders Established?

The child support
amount is set up in the divorce agreement or during a separate child
custody hearing. Parents who can agree to the terms for child support
and custody create their payment structure. The annual income of each
parent is evaluated. The only major changes in the support
assignments apply when both parties make at least $15,000 each month.

What is Done
to Enforce the Court Orders?

Any failure to
comply with the court order is reported to the family court. The
judge can issue a warrant for the noncustodial parent after payments
are delinquent severely. The noncustodial parent could stay in the
county jail until the payments are caught up. If the noncustodial
parent appears at a hearing, he or she may avoid a jail sentence.

In Maryland,
parents are required to create a child custody and support agreement.
The arrangements dictate how much is paid to the custodial parent
every month. The support could be monitored by the court to ensure
timely payments. The state requires a base value of 35% of the
noncustodial parent’s annual income. Parents who need answers are
encouraged to contact a child support lawyer in New Market or browse
our website right now.